I found the solution, I am using a cmos 555 timer, when power is applied to the circuit, (used a spst limit switch activated by the keyed lock), the led's light up until the 555 times out. After a little research, I also etched my first PCB to mount my components on. I forgot how much fun it was doing this kind of stuff (learning new things). When I get some free time I will post the schematic I used for this (I don't know if I used best practices, but the circuit does work). Thanks for the direction guys, I have a couple of projects in mind right now & I will be sure to post again as I will surely need more hints and advice.
Thanks again
C